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Xtra Time Web Desk: Salvatore Schillaci, the iconic Italian striker who captured the hearts of football fans during the 1990 World Cup, has passed away at 59. His former clubs, Inter Milan and Juventus, confirmed the news on Wednesday. Schillaci, born in Palermo, Sicily, succumbed to colon cancer, according to Italian media reports.

Schillaci, known affectionately as "Toto," dazzled during the 1990 World Cup held in Italy. He led the tournament with six goals, earning the Golden Boot and propelling Italy to a third-place finish. His memorable goals, including crucial strikes in the semi-final against Argentina and the third-place match against England, remain vivid in the memories of fans. His wide-eyed celebrations became an enduring symbol of that World Cup.

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Italy's Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni paid tribute on X, describing Schillaci as a football icon who touched the hearts of Italians and fans worldwide. "Thanks for the emotions you gave us, for having made us dream, celebrate, embrace, and wave our national flag. Bon voyage, champion."

Ciao Totò
Hero of the Notti Magiche???? pic.twitter.com/uJwB23ZWqt

— Italy ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ (@Azzurri_En) September 18, 2024

Schillaci's impact extended beyond the World Cup. Despite his relatively short international career, his performances in 1990 earned him the Golden Ball and a runner-up spot for the 1990 Ballon d'Or, behind Lothar Matthaus. After his World Cup heroics, Schillaci scored just one more goal for Italy and did not feature in subsequent major tournaments.

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A late bloomer in his career, Schillaci began his journey in the lower leagues with Messina. His top-scoring season in Serie B in 1988-89 led to a move to Juventus, where he helped secure the Coppa Italia and UEFA Cup before moving to Inter Milan and winning another UEFA Cup.

Ci lascia un'icona del calcio, un uomo entrato nel cuore degli italiani e degli amanti dello sport nel mondo. Salvatore Schillaci, per tutti Totò, il bomber delle notti magiche di Italia '90 con la nostra Nazionale. Grazie per le emozioni che ci hai regalato, per averci fatto… pic.twitter.com/3CWIACgAth

— Giorgia Meloni (@GiorgiaMeloni) September 18, 2024

Schillaci's influence extended to Japan, where he became the first Italian player to compete in the J.League, winning the title with Jubilo Iwata in 1997 before retiring in 1999.

Italia '90 will forever be synonymous with Salvatore Schillaci.

Rest in peace, Toto. ????????❤️

— FIFA World Cup (@FIFAWorldCup) September 18, 2024

Serie A President Lorenzo Casini honored Schillaci's legacy, calling him a "champion who lit up the magic nights of Italia '90." The Italian Football Association's president Gabriele Gravina described Schillaci as a symbol of will and redemption, ensuring his spirit will remain immortal in the annals of football history.